Orthopedic device

ABSTRACT

An orthopedic device, first and second struts, and a range-of-motion limiting pivot assembly connecting to the first and second struts. The pivoting assembly having an engagement member linked to a tab disposed and arranged for pulling radially outward away from a central axis of the pivoting assembly for adjusting the range of motion of the pivoting assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/478,478, filed Apr. 4, 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/317,737, filed on Apr. 4, 2016,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/418,867, filed on Nov. 8,2016, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety forall purposes.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure relates to orthopedic devices, including immobilizationbraces, such as knee and elbow braces to aid user outcomes followingsurgery or injury.

BACKGROUND

In orthopedic devices, and more particularly adjustable knee or elbowbraces or supports, it is desirable that the brace can limit the rangeof motion of a lower limb relative to the upper limb both as to bendingin flexion, and in extension of the lower limb relative to the upperlimb. Various immobilization brace arrangements have been proposed, andthese have included, such as for the knee, upper struts for extendingalong the thigh, and lower struts for extending along the lower leg orcalf. These braces or supports are often arranged in a “double upright”configuration because they are provided both on the inside or medialside of the leg, and on the outer or lateral side of the leg. The medialand lateral struts are normally padded, and provided with straps to holdthem in place by circumferential tension. Pivoting arrangements areprovided for coupling the upper and lower struts, and stops are providedfor limiting extension and flexion of the knee.

Common indications for immobilization of the knee include anterior-,posterior-, medial-, and lateral-collateral ligament repairs andinjuries, meniscal repairs, tibial plateau fractures, patellar tendonrepairs, osteochondral repairs, condylar fractures, and sprains orstrains of the knee. Common indications for immobilization of the elbowinclude fracture stabilization of the elbow, distal humerus, proximalradius or ulna, muscle, tendon and ligament repairs, reconstructions orinjuries, range of motion control of the elbow post injury, and elbowhypertension.

Many prior art immobilization braces have shortcomings because they tendto be unduly bulky, have complicated adjustment mechanisms, cause unduediscomfort to the limbs, or are not ergonomically configured. Theseprior art braces also may not hold proper or desired configurationduring use, and can often inadvertently adjust to a position orconfiguration not desired or intended.

Donning and doffing of prior art braces can be a laborious and tediousprocedure, particularly in the instance of an elbow brace whereby theuser has only one good arm to don and doff the brace. Prior art bracesmay require extensive tightening and positioning of various componentsduring donning of the brace, which can necessitate similar work duringdoffing of the brace. The difficulties in donning and doffing may leadto improper positioning and securing of prior art braces.

Other difficulties arise in properly fitting an orthopedic brace in aconsistent manner, particularly when the orthopedic brace must beconsistently donned and doffed by the user. Frequent adjustments made tostraps and other components of the brace can make it difficult for auser to adjust the brace to a fit properly snug while not being overlytight. It may be difficult for a user or a clinician tasked with fittinga brace to gauge the required amount that a strap should be tightened.Even if a strap has been set to a desired length/tightness, the act ofsetting the strap may make later donning and doffing more difficult, asit can become challenging to buckle or clip a strap having no slack.

Many prior art orthopedic braces have drawbacks that limit thedurability and/or comfort of the braces. Typically, an orthopedic braceincludes padding intended to cushion the portions of the body to whichthe brace is worn. However, such padding is often attached using hookand loop fasteners, and is often built or positioned in a manner thatleads to detachment of the padding from the brace or migration of thepadding from the intended position on the brace, requiring frequentreplacement or repositioning of the padding, and limiting the overallcomfort of the brace. The amount of hook and loop fastener componentsincluded in such braces often leads to the inadvertent sticking ortangling of straps, and can make organizing the straps and othercomponents of the brace more difficult during donning, doffing, orstorage of the brace.

There is need for an orthopedic brace that can be comfortably fit to auser while providing easy adjustment and intuitive flexion and extensionsettings and other settings, with reduced or eliminated inadvertentadjustment of such settings. There is need for an orthopedic brace thatprovides easy donning and doffing while enabling a consistentlyappropriate, comfortable and snug fit. There is need for an orthopedicbrace that provides benefits without being overly bulky or uncomfortableto a user, and that provides effective padding while maintainingdurability and ease of use.

SUMMARY

The embodiments of the disclosure relate to orthopedic braces andsupports that overcome the drawbacks in the prior art.

According to an embodiment, an orthopedic device includes a pivotassembly coupling a first strut and a second strut. The pivot assemblymay include a first plate disposed within a cover, such that the firstplate has a plurality of engagement surfaces disposed along an outerperiphery of the first plate, an arcuate channel defined by an innerperipheral surface of the cover and the first plate, and a first pivotstop having a carriage slidably disposed within the arcuate channel andhaving an engagement member. The engagement member may be slidablydisposed within the carriage, and coupled to a tab disposed radiallyoutward from the carriage. The carriage biases the engagement memberradially inward relative to the carriage to engage against an engagementsurface of the first plate to lock rotation of the first pivot stop.Radially outward movement of the tab disengages the engagement memberfrom the engagement surface to unlock rotation of the first pivot stop.

In another embodiment, the orthopedic device may include an uprightassembly having a strap attachment member and a clasp coupling member. Astrap is attached to the strap attachment member and extends therefrom.The strap includes a clasp assembly configured to couple to the claspcoupling member. The clasp assembly includes a fastener portion havingan opening configured to couple with a corresponding coupling member. Ahandle portion is joined to the fastener portion at a first hinge, andis rotatable relative to the fastener portion about the first hinge. Thehandle portion includes a clip that enables detachable coupling of thehandle portion to the fastener portion, and a strap attachment portionis coupled to the handle portion at a second hinge. The strap attachmentportion is rotatable relative to the handle portion about the secondhinge, and has a strap attachment member. The clasp assembly is moveablebetween an open configuration and a closed configuration. The openingand the strap attachment portion may be spaced apart at a greaterdistance in the open configuration than in the closed configuration.

In yet another embodiment, the orthopedic device may include an uprightassembly having a strut including an adjustment aperture configured witha plurality of wider sections spaced apart by narrower sections, and apaddle having an interior channel configured to receive the strut. Thepaddle may include a lever extending parallel to the interior channel. Apost may extend from the lever into the interior channel toward a postopening on a side of the paddle opposite the lever. The post can bebiased into the interior channel by the lever, such that the paddle isadjustably coupled to the strut. The post preferably extends through awider section of the adjustment aperture to lock a position of thepaddle. A depression of the post toward the lever frees the post fromthe adjustment aperture to enable translation of the paddle relative tothe strut.

The embodiments offer an intuitive arrangement that allows for theorthopedic device to be easy to apply. The orthopedic device hasbrackets and straps that make the device simple for donning, and indiciaor other means to educate a user on what may be adjusted, and apreferred sequence for securing the device. The composition andarrangement of the orthopedic device features enable a lightweight bracethat offers protection to avoid inadvertent tampering of settings, andis comfortable to wear. The orthopedic device has improved fittingarrangements over prior art devices due in part to paddle assembliesthat are more anatomically contoured and simply adjustable for bothheight and circumferential sizing yet with secure locking features, andin combination with the straps enables quick and easy opening andadjustment of the orthopedic device while offering a lower profile overprior art devices.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentdisclosure will become better understood regarding the followingdescription, appended claims, and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an elevational view of first and second upright assemblies ofan orthopedic device in an immobilization or post-operative knee brace.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the first upright assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a partial elevational view of the first upright assembly ofFIG. 1 without an outer cover provided thereon.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the first upright assembly of FIG. 1showing the pivot assembly.

FIGS. 5-7 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a pivot stop or range ofmotion (ROM) button configured to limit flexion and extension of thepivot assembly.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate a lock for another embodiment of the pivotassembly.

FIG. 8D illustrates an exemplary cross-section of the hinge of FIGS. 2and 3 with the lock of FIG. 8A applied over the ROM buttons.

FIGS. 9 and 10 are perspective views of the pivot assembly showing thedrop lock assembly in unlocked and locked positions, respectively.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate an exemplary paddle assembly and correspondingpaddle lock mechanism of the first upright assembly.

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate an embodiment of the first lower paddleassembly.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate an embodiment of the second lower paddleassembly.

FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of a variation of the orthopedicdevice of FIG. 1 with strap assemblies.

FIG. 16B illustrates various pads for use with the strap assemblies inFIG. 16A.

FIG. 16C is a cross-section of the pad in FIG. 16B taken along lineXVIC-XVIC.

FIG. 16D is an exemplary view of an anti-migration strap.

FIG. 17 illustrates clasps and clasp coupling members of the knee braceof FIG. 1, including a lever fastener.

FIGS. 18-20 illustrate operation of the lever fastener of FIG. 16.

FIG. 21 illustrates an inner side of the first upright assembly of FIG.1.

FIG. 22 is an elevational view of an upright assembly of an orthopedicdevice in an immobilization or post-operative elbow brace.

FIGS. 23-25 illustrate top, side, and profile views, respectively, of anoptional wrist control usable with the elbow brace of FIG. 22.

FIGS. 26-28 schematically illustrate a wrist control configured toimmobilize or limit wrist movement of a user.

FIG. 29 illustrates a front elevational view of another embodiment of awrist control.

FIG. 30 illustrates a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 29.

The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but instead are drawnto provide a better understanding of the components, and are notintended to be limiting in scope, but to provide exemplaryillustrations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

For further ease of understanding the exemplary embodiments of anorthopedic device in an immobilization or post-operative knee or elbowbrace as disclosed, these terms may be used with the features of theexemplary embodiments. The term “upper” refers to a location that is topor above a median portion (such as in a pivoting assembly proximate tothe knee). Likewise, the term “lower” refers to a location below amedian portion (such as in a pivoting assembly proximate to the knee)and is in contrast to the term “upper.”

The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used referring to relativelocations of parts or places on the limbs. Proximal then refers tosomething closer to the torso while distal refers to parts and placesaway from the torso. The femur is proximal to the knee, which isproximal to the ankle, which is proximal to the toes.

The terms “inner” or “inside” also have their ordinary meaning and referto an inside portion or location adjacent to or more proximate to a legor knee. The terms “outer” or “outside” have their ordinary meaning andrefer to a relative location opposite an inner or inside portion, and isthe side or surface typically on the outside of or proximate to theoutside of the device.

The terms “medial” and “lateral” are relative terms understood asindicating location near the midsaggital plane or midline. Therefore,elements near the midline are “medial” and those elements further fromthe midline are considered “lateral.” The term “central” is used todenote the area along the midline of a joint dividing and sharingregions of the medial and lateral regions. The medial side of the kneeis the inside part or side nearest to the other knee, while the lateralside of the knee faces away from the center of the body and is farthestfrom the other knee.

The terms “rigid,” “flexible,” and “resilient” may distinguishcharacteristics of portions of certain features of the orthopedic brace.The term “rigid” should denote that an element of the device isgenerally devoid of flexibility. Within the context of support membersthat are “rigid,” it should indicate that they do not lose their overallshape when force is applied, and they may break if bent with sufficientforce. The term “flexible” should denote that features are capable ofrepeated bending such that the features may be bent into retained shapesor the features do not retain a general shape, but continuously deformwhen force is applied. The term “resilient” is used to qualify suchflexible features as generally returning to an initial general shapewithout permanent deformation. As for the term “semi-rigid,” this termis used to connote properties that may have some degree of flexibilityor resiliency.

It will be understood that usage of ordinals, such as “first,” “second,”and etc., are nominally used as associative denotations, but are notnecessarily provided to denote spatial location. Rather, the ordinalmerely associates one element with another element, or distinguishes oneelement from another element.

Various embodiments described herein are in the exemplary form of animmobilization or post-operative knee brace. However, it will beunderstood that similar embodiments and components as described,considered individually or in combination with other components, may beused for an orthopedic device in an elbow brace, ankle brace, shoulderbrace, or other brace in which motion control and/or motion limiting ofa body joint is desired. The components do not have to be used with theother components described herein.

FIG. 1 illustrates first and second upright assemblies 10 and 12, whichmay be positioned on opposite sides of a user's leg (medial and lateral)when a knee brace 13 is donned. The first upright assembly 10 includesan upper or first strut 14 and a lower or second strut 22 coupled to oneanother by a pivot assembly 38. Likewise, the second upright assembly 12includes an upper or first strut 24 and a lower or second strut 32coupled to one another by a pivot assembly 39. Such struts may sometimesbe referenced as femoral or proximal struts (extending along the femuror upper leg bone), and tibial or distal struts (extending along thetibia or principal lower leg bone). Preferably, the struts 14, 22, 24,32 are formed from a material (e.g., aluminum) that provides sufficientrigidity to support and brace the knee joint, while also being somewhatmalleable to allow optional bending by a clinician for betterconformation to a user's leg. When worn, however, the struts 14, 22, 24,32 do not bend or yield to the user's leg, but remain stiff or rigidwhen worn by the user.

Various features and components of the first and second uprightassemblies 10, 12 will now be described with specific reference to thefirst upright assembly 10. It will be understood, however, that thedescribed features and components are also applicable to the secondupright assembly 12. The pivot assembly 38 enables rotation of the upperstrut 14 relative to the lower strut 22 about a central axis (shown hereas surrounding central fastener 86). The pivot assembly 38 includespivot stops 40 and 42, which are configurable to limit the relativerotation of the upper and lower struts 14, 22 to limit extension andflexion of a user's knee when the brace has been donned. For apost-operative user, it is often desirable to limit bending of the kneein the extension direction (straightening out the leg) and/or theflexion direction (bending the leg).

The exemplary pivot assembly 38 also includes a drop lock assembly asevidenced by a drop lock button 98 configured to quickly and easily lockthe relative pivoting of the upper and lower struts 14, 22. When thedrop lock button 98 is moved from an unlocked position to a lockingposition, the drop lock assembly 96 functions to lock the first uprightassembly 10 so rotation of the upper and lower struts 14, 22 relative toone another is prevented. At least the drop lock assembly may be adaptedfrom U.S. patent application publication no. 2013/0253396, publishedSep. 26, 2013, and incorporated herein by reference.

The first upright assembly 10 includes first and second upper paddleassemblies 112, 114 a, and first and second lower paddle assemblies 118b, 116 a. In the illustrated embodiment, the first upper paddle assembly112 is adjustably mounted along the length of the upper strut 14, andthe second lower paddle assembly 116 a is adjustably mounted along thelength of the lower strut 22 by respective locking mechanisms 120, 122.The upper strut 14 and lower strut 22 each include a respectiveadjustment aperture (as seen in FIG. 2) 20, 26, formed as a longitudinalslot having a plurality of relatively wide sections spaced apart byrelatively narrow sections.

The locking mechanisms 120, 122 are operable with the adjustmentapertures 20, 26 to enable the first upper paddle assembly 112 and firstlower paddle assembly 118 b to be adjustably locked to the respectiveupper and lower struts 14, 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondupper paddle assembly 114 a and second lower paddle assembly 116 a arefixedly attached to the respective upper and lower struts 14, 22. Inalternative embodiments, any of or combinations of the paddle assemblies112, 114 a, 116 a, 118 b may be configured as adjustable/translatablealong the respective strut 14, 22.

The paddle assemblies 112, 114 a, 116 a, 118 b of the first uprightassembly 10 and the paddle assemblies 170, 172, 174, 176 of the secondupright assembly 12 are configured to carry, support, and guide a numberof straps to enable fitting of the brace upon a user. The illustratedembodiment includes integrally formed strap attachment members 130, 131,132, 133 disposed on the second upright assembly 12 and configured toenable the attachment of straps, and strap guiding slots 134, 136, 178,180 disposed on the first upright assembly 10 configured to receive andguide the straps. The illustrated embodiment also includes integratedclasp coupling members 182, 184, 186, 188 disposed on the second uprightassembly 12 and configured to engage with a corresponding clasp toenable fastening of a strap to the respective paddle assembly.

A number of straps may be attached to the strap attachment members 130,131, 132, 133 on the second upright assembly 12, passed through thestrap guiding slots 134, 136, 178, 180 of the first upright assembly 10,then passed back around again to the second upright assembly 12 whereclasped ends of the straps can be coupled to the clasp coupling members182, 184, 186, 188 to form a completed strap circumference for eachstrap. Alternative embodiments may include different configurations ofstrap attachment members, strap guiding members, and/or clasp couplingmembers than the particular embodiment illustrated. Some embodiments mayswap the relative locations of strap attachment members and strapguiding slots or may alternate positions of such components. Inaddition, some embodiments may include one or more buckles, integratedsections of hook fastener material (e.g., for attachment tocorresponding loop fastener material), and/or other strap fasteningmeans.

As shown, the clasp coupling members 182, 184, 186, 188 are integrallyformed with their respective paddle assemblies 170, 172, 174, 176. Thiscan beneficially provide a more secure attachment of straps to thepaddle assemblies and can ensure that attached straps maintain a properpositional relationship to the paddle assemblies during the brace by auser of the brace. As opposed to a non-integrated buckle or otherfastener attached to a paddle assembly with its own section of strap,the integrated clasp coupling members 182, 184, 186, 188 allow directattachment of a strap to a paddle assembly, enabling the strap andpaddle assembly to better maintain positional relationship and to avoidmigration and slipping of one component relative to the other.

The paddle assemblies have a contoured and low profile to accommodatethe shape of a leg. Beneficially, the large surface area and contouredshape of the paddle assemblies aid in the securing and fitting of a kneebrace to a user's leg, and minimizes shifting of the leg within thebrace. In addition, using a plurality of paddle assemblies aids insecuring the brace components to a user's leg while simultaneouslyallowing for adjustable use and custom fitting.

The first upper paddle assembly 112 and first lower paddle assembly 118b may be adjusted to higher and lower positions relative to a user'sknee aligned with the pivot assembly 38, while the second upper paddleassembly 114 a and second lower paddle assembly 116 a are maintainednear the pivot assembly 38. In this manner, a brace can simultaneouslysupport the upper and lower extremities of a user's leg, according toneeded custom fitting parameters, while simultaneously maintainingsupport at constant and standard distances above and below the pivotassembly 38. This can advantageously allow for customizable fitting ofthe brace with no sacrifice to support near the knee joint itself.

As depicted, one or more of the paddle assemblies may include padsconfigured to reside between the paddle assemblies and the leg of a userwhen the brace is being worn. In the illustrated embodiment, the firstupright assembly 10 includes pads 138, 140, and 142. Preferably, thepads are formed from a soft, elastomeric material such as natural rubberor one or more synthetic rubber materials (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetate(“EVA”)). In a preferred embodiment, the peripheral edges of the padsextend about or past, or both, the peripheral edges of the paddleassemblies to minimize and protect from any sharp edges arising from thepaddle assemblies, and therefore provide greater comfort to the user.For example, the pads may wrap about the edges of the paddle assemblies,or be oversized relative to the paddle assemblies, and may be contouredto correspond in shape to the paddle assemblies, as shown.

The pads 138, 140, and 142 are joined onto their respective paddleassemblies such that a portion of the pad extends from the inner surfaceof the paddle assembly around to the outer surface of the paddleassembly, as shown. Beneficially, this enables the pads 138, 140, 142 tobe attached to the respective paddle assemblies with no additional hookand loop fastener materials or other fastening means. This minimizes thepotential for the pads to become detached and/or to migrate or slip outof proper position relative to the paddle assemblies. In addition, thepad structure and attachment allow for a lower overall thickness/profileof the brace, as the need for additional hook and loop materials orother components between a pad and paddle assembly is reduced oreliminated. This reduces the bulk of the brace.

The illustrated embodiment omits pads at the second lower paddleassemblies 116 a and 174. An optional anti-migration strap (not shown)may instead be positioned adjacent to the second lower paddle assemblies116 a, 174 on the inner surfaces of the second lower paddle assemblies116 a, 174. In some embodiments, an anti-migration strap is anintegrated anti-migration strap integrally coupled to the device. Theanti-migration strap may be configured to wrap around the circumferenceof the user's leg in combination with a corresponding strap, and theanti-migration strap may be attached to the corresponding strap (e.g.,through hook and loop fastener material, buttons, and/or other suitablefasteners). The anti-migration strap functions to broaden the strap tourge uniform pressure about the circumference of the leg to limitmigration. The anti-migration strap is preferably formed from a materialthat is flexible and breathable and that provides frictional properties,such as a high friction foam material. Preferably, the anti-migrationstrap is positioned so it may be wrapped around the widest portion of auser's calf to aid in preventing migration of the brace.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the pivot assembly 38 includes an outer or firstcover 60, an outer or first plate 66, an outer or first bearing 70, astrut head 24 from which the lower strut 22 extends, an inner or secondbearing 72, an inner or second plate 68, and an inner or second cover62, all of which are positioned about a central axis A-A as connected bya central fastener 86. The first and second covers 60, 62, and first andsecond plates 66, 68 may define a flat, disc-like shape. The centralfastener 86 extends through central holes of each component to attachthe components of the pivot assembly 38 to the lower strut 22. Upperstrut fasteners 88, 90 are used to fasten the components of the pivotassembly 38 to the upper strut 14. As shown, the first and second plates66, 68 and the first and second bearings 70, 72 are rigidly secured tothe upper strut 14, while the lower strut 22 is rotatable relative tothe first and second plates 66, 68 and the first and second bearings 70,72 about the central axis A-A.

While the first and second plates 66, 68, and first and second covers60, 62 are depicted and described as being discretely separate elements,they may be formed monolithically. For example, the outer plate andouter cover may be formed together as a single element, to form aunitary element constructed from a same material or a combination ofmaterials. The combination of the outer plate and outer cover, and theinner plate and inner cover, whether considered unitary or discretelyseparate, may be referred to as a pivoting element. For example, thecombination of the outer plate and the outer cover may be referred to asan outer pivoting element, and the inner plate and the inner cover maybe referred to as an inner pivoting element.

Pivot stops 40, 42 are rotatable relative to the first and second plates66, 68. The pivot stops 40, 42 are configured to selectively be engagedwith the notches of the first and second plates 66, 68 to delimitflexion and extension of the lower strut 22 relative to the upper strut14 as the stop edges 144, 146 abut against the pivot stops 40, 42 toprevent further rotation of the lower strut 22 past the pivot stops 40,42. The drop lock assembly as evidenced by drop lock button 98 isdisposed within a drop lock recess 100 that extends through the firstand second plates 66, 68, first and second bearings 70, 72, and theupper strut 14. The drop lock assembly 96 is configured to beselectively engaged with the notches 28 of the lower strut 22 to lockrotation of the upper and lower struts 14, 22 relative to one another.

The first and second bearings 70, 72 are preferably formed from apolymer material such as a polyamide (e.g., nylon) orpolytetrafluoroethylene. As shown, the first and second bearings 70, 72are positioned between the first and second plates 66, 68 and the struthead 24 of the lower strut 22. In this configuration, the first andsecond bearings 70, 72 can provide smooth rotation of the lower strut 22relative to the upper strut 14. This beneficially provides a user with amore comfortable and natural feel during flexion and/or extensionmotions of the knee, by avoiding any catching or binding between thefirst and second plates 66, 68 and the strut head 24. In addition, thefirst and second bearings 70, 72 function to protect the adjacentcomponents to which they are applied, increasing the durability andusability of the knee brace.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate the pivot assembly 38 with the first cover 60removed. The pivot stops 40, 42 are disposed within an arcuate channel92 defined by the circumferential space between the first and secondplates 66, 68 and the interior surface formed by the first and secondcovers 60 (shown above), 62. The first and second plates 66, 68 includeengagement surfaces as shown by example in raised extensions 94(defining notches therebetween) that are radially aligned so the pivotstops 40, 42 may be received by the notches of both first and secondplates 66, 68. As shown, by configuring the raised extensions 94 toextend radially outward from the first and second plates 66, 68, theplates may be formed as substantially solid integrated pieces that canbeneficially omit arcuate slots or arcuate cutout potions (e.g., aresubstantially solid other than fastening holes and a drop lock recess100). The arcuate path through which the pivot stops 40, 42 rotate isdisposed between the first and second plates 66, 68 and the first andsecond covers 60, 62, and need not be defined by structural cutoutsthrough the surfaces of the first and second plates 66, 68 or othercomponents of the pivot assembly 38.

FIGS. 5-7 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a pivot stop 40, whichincludes a carriage 44 and a tab 46 attached to a body 47 that slidablyinserts into the carriage 44 and moves parallel or is axial with an axisof the carriage 44. The tab 46 is preferably configured in size, shape,and/or texture to allow a user to engage with the tab 46 by pulling thetab radially outward so the pivot stop 40 may be disengaged from thenotches of the first and second plates 66, 68 and repositioned. Anengagement member, such as a pin 52 is coupled to the body 47 andextends transversely through the body 47 to protrude through a pin slot54 formed through the carriage 44 and configured to receive the pin 52.The pin 52 is configured to extend into the notches defined by theraised extensions 94 of the first and second plates 66, 68. Flanges 56,58 also protrude from the carriage 44 and are configured to be receivedinto the arcuate channel 92 to secure the carriage 44 within the arcuatechannel 92.

Springs 48 and 50 are coupled to the body 47 and are configured to biasthe body 47 and connected pin 52 downward (i.e., radially inward)relative to the carriage 44. In operation, when a user pulls upward(i.e., radially outward) on the tab 46, the body 47 is moved radiallyoutward relative to carriage 44, which is held in place within thearcuate channel 92 by example in the form of flanges 56, 58 extendingfrom the carriage. Outward movement of the body 47 moves the pin 52 tothe outer section of the pin slot 54, disengaging the pin 52 from thenotches of the plates 66, 68 and enabling a user to freely rotate thepivot stop 40 about the arcuate channel 92 to a desired position. Uponreleasing the tab 46, the springs 48, 50 bias the body 47downward/radially inward regarding the carriage 44, moving the pin 52into the inner section of the pin slot 54 where the pin 52 engages withthe notches of the first and second plates 66, 68 to lock the pivot stop40 in position.

The described configuration beneficially allows for easy adjustment ofthe pivot stops 40, 42 when desired while simultaneously avoidingunintended adjustments made through accidental actuation of a pivotstop. The pull-out functionality of a pivot stop requires a verydeliberate action to disengage and reposition the pivot stop. Thisallows for easy adjustment and, because a tab probably will notaccidentally be pulled, protects against inadvertent adjustments.Configurations which rely on push-in functionality are easily actuatedthrough normal use, accidental bumping, etc. Likewise, configurationsthat rely on actuation through push or pull movements perpendicular tothe plane defined by the first and second plates 66, 68 and/or that relyon lever action are also susceptible to accidental disengagement avoidedby the pull-out functionality of the pivot stops described herein.

FIGS. 8A-8C exemplify another embodiment of a pivot stop or range ofmotion (ROM) button 41, which includes a range of motion (ROM) lock 61.The ROM lock 61 is arranged to lock the hinge at an angle set by theclinician. The locking by the ROM lock 61 has a two-fold purposeincluding (1) prevention of patient tampering of the set range of motionof the hinge, and (2) prevention of accidental bumping or unintentionalmovement of the pivot stops 40, 42 or ROM button 41. The lock can beapplied to ROM buttons arranged for pushing in toward a central axis A-Aof the hinge, or to ROM buttons arranged for pulling away from thecentral axis A-A of the hinge, and serves a similar purpose in both ROMhinge variations. In either configuration, whether pulling or pushing,the lock advantageously arrests the tab from further adjustment.

FIGS. 8A and 8B exemplify an embodiment of the ROM lock 61. The ROM lock61 is fitted over the surface 53 of the tab 46 of the ROM button 41 andsnaps to first and second flanges 49, 51 in a variation of the carriage45 that sets the angle in the hinge. As shown, the ROM lock 61 maydefine a generally U-shape profile having a center portion 63, and firstand second arms 65, 67 extending therefrom. The first and second arms65, 67 terminate with first and second latches 69, 71 arranged to engagethe first and second flanges 49, 51 of the carriage 45.

FIG. 8C exemplifies dimensions to the ROM lock 61 whereby an insidewidth 79 between the first and second arms 65, 67 of the ROM lock 61 issmaller than a width 75 of the tab 46. When the ROM lock 61 is pushedover a surface 53 of the tab 46, the first and second arms 65, 67deflect from the surface 53. This creates a spring force with the ROMlock 61, which results in the first and second latches 69, 71 (shownabove) snapping against the first and second flanges 49, 51, with theROM lock 61 snapping to its original predetermined shape prior to beinginstalled over the tab 46.

While the ROM lock 61 may be made from nylon, other materials may beused that can deflect and resiliently return to an original,predetermined shape or configuration once relaxed. Once the ROM lock 61engages with the carriage 45, the ROM button 41 is prevented from beingpulled away from the hinge by confining the pin 52 to the bottom(locked) location of the pin slot 54.

FIG. 8D shows a cross section of the hinge with the ROM lock 61 in placeover the ROM buttons 40, 42, with the ROM locks 61 sufficiently withinthe first and second covers 60 (shown above), 62. The ROM lock 61 can bearranged to engage the first and second covers 60 (shown above), 62along the circular rim or with a metal insert within the hinge.

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate the pivot assembly 38, showing the drop lockassembly 96 with drop lock button 98 removed. The drop lock assembly 96includes a drop lock body 104 shaped to define a groove 106 for engagingwith a leaf spring 102. As shown, the drop lock body 104 and leaf spring102 are slidably disposed within the drop lock recess 100. The groove106 allows the leaf spring 102 to flex between two positions within thedrop lock recess 100 corresponding to the locked and unlocked positionsof the drop lock assembly 96.

FIG. 9 illustrates the drop lock assembly 96 in an unlockedconfiguration, with the leaf spring 102 deflected upward toward theupper strut (shown above) and away from the notches 28 of the lowerstrut 22. FIG. 10 illustrates the drop lock assembly 96 in a lockedconfiguration, with the leaf spring 102 deflected downward toward thenotches 28(shown above). In the locked position, the leaf spring 102maintains the drop lock body 104 downward so the lock teeth 108 engagewith the notches 28.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate an exemplary first upper paddle assembly 112 andassociated lock mechanism 120. Other paddle assemblies described hereinmay be similarly configured. The first upper paddle assembly 112 isconfigured for adjustable connection to a corresponding strut (in thisexemplary instance, upper strut 14). An adjustment aperture 20 includesa number of wider sections configured to receive a post 128, spacedapart by several narrower sections too narrow for passage of the post128. The upper strut 14 is inserted into the first upper paddle assembly112 through a paddle slot 124 leading to an interior paddle channel 125.As depicted, the locking mechanism includes a lever 126 disposed on aninner paddle surface 110. The lever 126 is coupled to the post 128,which extends outward from the lever 126 through the interior paddlechannel 125 to a post opening 129 disposed on the outer paddle surface111. The lever 126 functions to bias the post 128 outward, such that thepost traverses the interior paddle channel 125.

In operation, the first upper paddle assembly 112 may be adjusted when auser depresses the post (i.e., presses the post inward) through theaccess given by the post opening 129. Once the post has been depressedto a degree sufficient to clear the adjustment aperture 20, the firstupper paddle assembly 112 may be freely translated upon the upper strut14. If no further depression of the post 128 is provided, the firstupper paddle assembly 112 may be translated until the post 128 alignswith a wider portion of the adjustment aperture 20, at which point thelever 126 will function to bias the post 128 outward into the widerportion of the adjustment aperture 20, preventing further translationand locking the first upper paddle assembly 112 into position.

FIGS. 14A and 14B exemplify another embodiment of the second lowerpaddle assembly 116 b. Similar to the second lower paddle assembly 116 ain the embodiment of FIG. 1, the second lower paddle assembly 116 bincludes first and second wings 117, 119, spaced apart by a centralportion 121. The first wing 117 includes a first attachment member 171dividing first and second strap slots 173, 175, and is adapted tosupport a strap 190, as shown in FIG. 16. The central portion 121 isarranged to secure to the lower strut 22 in FIG. 1. The second wing 119defines a coupling member 186 arranged over an opening 135 and proximateto a relief opening 123.

A rear surface of the second wing 119, as shown in FIG. 14B, about thecoupling member 186 may be reinforced to provide better support to thesecond lower paddle assembly 116 b while a strap is secured thereto. Thereinforcement may be defined as a thickened region 137 on an opposedside from the relief opening 123. The front surface or other suitableareas of the second wing 119 may be reinforced, and the abovereinforcement area 151 is by example.

In the illustrated example, the relief opening 123 has an arcuate shapebut is not limited to such shape, however the arcuate shape isadvantageous because the second lower paddle assembly 116 b is bent atits corners and preserves a “snapping” geometry of the coupling member186. The relief opening 123 allows the second lower paddle assembly 116b to maintain flexibility, particularly as a strap is secured andtensioned between the first and second wings 117, 119, but inhibitsdeformation of the second lower paddle assembly 116 b as a whole. Therelief opening 123 enables the remainder of the second lower paddleassembly 116 b to be thickened and strengthened while providingsufficient flexibility to the user by yielding proximate the couplingmember 186.

FIGS. 15A and 15B exemplify another embodiment of a first lower paddleassembly 118 b. As with the second lower paddle assembly 116 b, thefirst lower paddle assembly 118 b includes first and second wings 139,141, spaced apart by a central portion 143. The first wing 139 includesa first attachment member 177 dividing strap slots, and is adapted tosupport a strap 192 in FIG. 16. The central portion 143 is adapted tosecure to the lower strut 22 in FIG. 1.

The second wing 141 defines a coupling member 188 arranged over anopening 149 and proximate to a relief opening 145. Both the first andsecond wings 139, 141 define apertures along the central portion 143,for enabling flexure of the wings 139, 141 relative to the centralportion 143 and arranged above and below the first attachment member177, and the coupling member 188 and relief opening 145, withouthindering the first attachment member 177 and the coupling member 188.The second wing 141 includes an exemplary reinforcement area 151 similarto the second lower paddle assembly 116 b.

Each of the first and second lower paddle assemblies 118 b, 116 b,include indicia for advising a user of a preferred sequence for securingstraps, as shown in FIG. 16. The indicia may be printed, such as with anumber, color or pattern of features, or formed on the first and secondlower paddle assemblies 118 b, 116 b. A strap associated with the secondlower paddle assembly 116 b is the first strap to be applied to a user,by indication of indicia “1” on the second lower paddle assembly 116 b.Another strap is associated with the first lower paddle assembly 118 b,and is the third strap to be applied to a user, by indication of indicia“3” on the first lower paddle assembly 118 b.

FIG. 16A shows an exemplary arrangement of the orthopedic device ofhaving first and second upper paddle assemblies 112 b, 114 b, similar tothe first and second lower paddle assemblies 118 b, 116 b of FIGS. 14a-15 b. Straps 190, 191, 192, 193 are associated with various paddleassemblies according to the indicia or preferred sequence of donning theorthopedic device on a user. Hook fastener material 194 or othersuitable fastener material is applied to each of the paddle assembliesfor securing to pads.

FIG. 16B shows exemplary pads 195, 196, 197 arranged for securing torespective paddle assemblies. Each of the exemplary pads 195, 196, 197are cut or formed to correspond in shape to its respective paddleassembly. The pads 195, 196, 197 are preferably formed from a foam orother suitable compressible material, and have a surface lined withunbroken loop material or other suitable material for securing to thehook fastener material 194.

FIG. 16C shows a cross-section of exemplary pad 195 having a pluralityof hinges 199 formed by weld lines that correspond to opposed sides ofthe central portion in the first lower paddle assembly 118 b, as shownin FIGS. 15a and 15b . Any of the aforementioned pads may be formedsimilarly to the pad 195, and according to the structure of the paddleassembly by which they lie against. The hinges 199 follow the first andsecond wings 139, 141, such that the pad 195 has first and second padwings 203, 204 separated from a central pad portion 205 by the hinges199. Each of the pad wings and the central pad portion 205 have agreater thickness area 200 than the hinges 199 defined by thinnerthickness areas 206, preferably formed by thermoforming foam.

The pad 195 defines thermoformed edge area 201 defined by a thickerregion 207 of the pad, and bordered by a hinge 208 adjacent the padwings 203, 204, and a peripheral edge area 209 having a thicknessthinner than the thicker region 201. The edge area 201 preferablysurrounds the first and second pad wings 203, 204, and the central padportion 205. The edge area 201 provides pressure relieving areas aboutthe periphery of the pad 195, and the peripheral edge area 209 and hinge208, assist in enabling the pressure relieving area, and add to overallcomfort of the pad 195.

FIG. 16D illustrates an exemplary strap 198 a that may replace strap 190or may overlie the strap 190 associated with the second lower paddleassembly 116 b. The strap 198 a may serve as an anti-migration strap andpreferably includes weld lines 198 c useable for trimming the length ofthe strap 198 a. A center portion 198 b may be thermoformed to shape.

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary knee brace 13, showing clasp couplingmembers 182, 184, 186, 188. The knee brace 13 may also include one ormore clasps configured to couple with the clasp coupling members, suchas the illustrated D-ring clasps 152. Straps may be secured and guidedby various components of the knee brace 13 to enable fitting of thebrace to a user, and the straps may be attached to clasps, such as thoseillustrated, to provide circumferential closure of the brace around theuser's leg when the clasps are coupled to corresponding clasp couplingmembers. One or more clasps may be configured as lever fasteners.

In the illustrated embodiment, a lever fastener 154 or clasp assembly ispositioned to clasp a strap enclosing the upper portions of the calf.Often this is an area where migration and slippage of a donned braceoccur, and is often an area that can be difficult to appropriatelytighten in a consistent manner. Although this exemplary embodimentdepicts only one such lever fastener 154, one or more of the otherclasps may also be configured as lever fasteners.

FIGS. 18-20 illustrate operation of lever fastener 154. FIG. 18illustrates the lever fastener 154 coupled to a second lower paddleassembly 116 a. The lever fastener 154 includes a fastener portion 158configured to couple with a corresponding clasp coupling member 186. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the fastener portion 158 is formed as aD-ring. The fastener portion 158 is joined to a handle portion 156 at afirst hinge 162. The handle portion 156 is rotatable regarding thefastener portion 158 about the first hinge 162. The illustrated handleportion 156 has a length that extends from the first hinge 162 beyondthe length of the fastener portion 158 when the lever fastener 154 is inthe closed configuration shown in FIG. 19. The handle portion 156 isconfigured to allow a user to actuate the lever fastener 154 between theopened and closed configurations without interfering with coupling ofthe fastener portion 158 to a corresponding coupling member 186.

The handle portion 156 includes a clip 166 that extends toward thefastener portion 158 and that is configured to engage with the fastenerportion 158 to lock the handle portion 156 in the closed configuration.The clip 166 is configured so that when a sufficient moment force isapplied about the first hinge 162, the clip 166 disengages from thecorresponding surface of the fastener portion 158 to allow the handleportion 156 to rotate about the first hinge 162. In this embodiment, anon-curved portion of a D-ring 159 of the fastener portion 158 functionsas a clip attachment surface 167.

The handle portion 156 is joined to a strap attachment portion 160 abouta second hinge 164. The second hinge 164 allows the strap attachmentportion 160 to be rotated relative to the handle portion 156. As shown,the strap attachment portion 160 is shaped to fit within a matchingprofile area of the handle portion 156, such that when the leverfastener 154 is in the closed configuration, the strap attachmentportion 160 nests partially within the handle portion 156 to maintain alow profile and a smooth outer surface of the lever fastener 154. Thelow profile design beneficially reduces bulk and lowers the risk ofinadvertently catching the lever fastener 154 upon an object.

When the lever fastener 154 is moved toward the open configuration inFIG. 20, the distance between the fastener portion 158 and the strapattachment portion 160 is increased. The distance between the D-ring 159of the fastener portion 158 and the strap attachment member 161 of thestrap attachment portion 160 may be increased.

In operation, a strap (not shown) is attached to the strap attachmentmember 161. When a user (or physician/fitting therapist or other user)desires to attach the strap to the second lower paddle assembly 116 a tocomplete the encircling of the strap about the leg, the user may couplethe D-ring 159 to the corresponding clasp coupling member 186.Beneficially, by placing the lever fastener 154 in the openconfiguration during this coupling, the strap may be provided with anincreased amount of slack, making it easier to couple the fastenerportion 158 to the clasp coupling member 186 with no pulling andover-tightening to bring the D-ring 159 past and then into the receivingarea of the clasp coupling member 186.

The lever fastener 154 may then be moved to the closed configurationshortening the distance between the clasp coupling member 186 and thestrap attachment member 161 and tightening the strap accordingly. Thisallows the strap to be easily fitted to the appropriate tightnesswithout the need to adjust placement or attachment of the strap itselfrelative to the lever fastener 154. This also allows the strap to beconsistently applied at the same tightness while also providing easydetachment and reattachment. This is beneficial where a brace isfrequently donned and doffed, and reduces the amount of readjustingnecessary to maintain a consistent fit.

FIG. 21 shows a view of the inner side of the upright assembly 10. Asshown, the pad 142 includes a number of holes configured to add to thebreathability of the pad 142. A knee brace may include one or more ofsuch pads and/or may include one or more pads configured with ridges,perforations, striations, or other features for increasing thetexture/gripability and/or breathability of the pads.

FIG. 21 shows the first lower paddle assembly 118 b as including anintegrated fastener portion 168 disposed on the inner side 169 of thefirst lower paddle assembly 118 b. One or more of the paddle assembliesof a brace may include such integrated fastener portions, which may beformed as integrated (e.g., injection molded or otherwise integrallyformed) portions of hook fastener material. The integrated fastenerportion 168 beneficially functions to lock a strap (e.g., one formedwith corresponding loop fastener material) against the inner side 169. Astrap (not shown) may be passed through the strap guiding slots 178.Upon proper positioning of the strap, the strap may be attached to theintegrated fastener portion 168, thereby locking the position of thestrap relative to the upright assembly 10. In some embodiments, ablocking sheet (not shown) may be placed over the integrated fastenerportion 168 to prevent attachment of the strap until it is desired, atwhich point the blocking sheet may be removed to allow contact betweenthe hook and loop fastener materials.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an immobilization orpost-operative elbow brace 213. The features and components of thepost-operative elbow brace 213 may be configured similarly to theembodiments of the aforementioned knee brace features and componentsdescribed herein. The illustrated post-operative elbow brace 213includes an upright assembly 210 including an upper strut 224 and alower strut 222 joined by a pivot assembly 238. The pivot assembly 238includes pivot stops 240, 242 and a drop lock assembly 292 which operatesimilar to like components described in relation to the aforementionedknee brace embodiments. The illustrated post-operative elbow brace 213includes paddles 212, 214, 216, 218 having formable sections 250configured to be formable (e.g., formed from aluminum or similarlyformable material) about the arm of a user to aid in fitting of thepost-operative elbow brace 213.

The post-operative elbow brace 213 includes strap attachment members230, 232, 234, 236 to which straps may be joined. Typically, in an elbowbrace application, a user will don a single upright, with the strapsextending from the strap attachment members 230, 232, 234, 236 aroundthe arm and back to corresponding clasp coupling members, such as claspcoupling members 282, 284, 286. The illustrated embodiment also includesa sling strap coupling member 254 configured for attachment of a slingstrap positionable over a user's opposite shoulder.

FIGS. 23-25 illustrate top, side, and profile views, respectively, of awrist control 256 as worn by a user. The post-operative elbow brace 213may include the optional wrist control 256 configured to immobilize orlimit wrist movement of a user. As depicted, the wrist control 256includes a first strap member 258 that reaches around the ulnar side ofthe user's hand and a second strap member 260 that reaches around theradial side of the user's hand (through the crook of the hand) to couplewith the first strap member 258 at the palm of the user's hand.

FIGS. 26-28 illustrate a wrist control 356 configured to immobilize orlimit wrist movement of a user. As depicted, the wrist control 356includes a clip 358 to enable attachment of the wrist control 356 to acorresponding clip receiver 362 of a paddle assembly 318. Theillustrated wrist control 356 also includes strap slots 360 forreceiving and guiding straps to fit the wrist control 356 to a user'shand. As depicted in FIGS. 27 and 28, the wrist control 356 alsoincludes guides 364, 366 to enable aligned coupling to the paddleassembly 318 via corresponding guide holes 368, 370.

FIGS. 29 and 30 exemplify a variation of the wrist control 356 with astay 372 attached thereto. The stay 372 may be formed from cold-formablealuminum enabling a clinician to adjust the shape of the stay 372 to fitanatomy of a user while preserving its shape, or alternatively it mayhave a predetermined, fixed shape. Padding 374 may line the stay 372,and a strap 376 may connect to either the wrist control 356 or the stay372, and have a tab 378 for securing to the strap 376 or the wristcontrol 356.

An advantage to the wrist control 356 is that the stay 372 can beremoved, reversed and reattached to the wrist control 356 so thepost-operative elbow brace 213 can be arranged for right- or left-handeduse.

While the foregoing embodiments have been described and shown,alternatives and modifications of these embodiments, such as thosesuggested by others may be made to fall within the scope of thedisclosure. While the orthopedic device has mostly been described inrelation to an immobilization or post-operative knee brace, it will beunderstood that the principles, features, and/or components describedmay be extended to other types of orthopedic and prosthetic devices.

1. An upright assembly for an orthopedic device, the upright assemblycomprising at least a first strut connected to a second strut by ahinge, wherein the upright assembly further comprises: a first paddleassembly having a lock mechanism, the first paddle assembly adapted toslide along the first strut and adjustably lock to the first strut amonga plurality of predetermined locations by the lock mechanism, the firststrut forming an adjustment aperture defining a longitudinal slot havinga plurality of wider sections spaced apart by narrower sections relativeto the wider sections; wherein the adjustment aperture is adapted toreceive a post carried by the first paddle assembly, the first strut isarranged to be inserted through a paddle slot formed by the first paddleassembly formed and leading to an interior paddle channel, the pluralityof wider sections configured to receive the post, and the plurality ofnarrower sections being too narrow for passage of the post therethrough;wherein the locking mechanism includes a lever disposed along an innerpaddle surface of the first paddle assembly, the lever being coupled tothe post which extends outward from the lever through the interiorpaddle channel to a post opening disposed on an outer paddle surface ofthe first paddle assembly, the lever biasing the post outward, such thatthe post traverses the interior paddle channel.
 2. The upright assemblyof claim 1, wherein the first paddle assembly defines first and secondwings, spaced apart by a central portion including the post and theinterior paddle channel, the first and second wings extending laterallyrelative to the central portion and a length of the first strut.
 3. Theupright assembly of claim 2, wherein the first wing includes a firstattachment member dividing first and second strap slots, and adapted tosupport a strap.
 4. The upright assembly of claim 2, wherein the firstand second wings define apertures along the first and second sides ofand adjacent to the central portion.
 5. The upright assembly of claim 2,wherein the central portion is arranged to secure to the lower strut. 6.The upright assembly of claim 2, wherein the second wing defines acoupling member arranged over an opening and proximate to a reliefopening spaced apart from the opening.
 7. The upright assembly of claim6, wherein a reinforcement is defined on an opposed side of the reliefopening, and is formed by a localized thickened area of the second wing.8. The upright assembly of claim 6, wherein the relief opening definesan arcuate shape and extends toward and about at least a portion of thecoupling member.
 9. The upright assembly of claim 6, wherein indicia isprovided proximate the coupling member.
 10. The upright assembly ofclaim 2, wherein the central portion extends beyond the first and secondwings, the post is defined at an end portion of the central portiondirected toward the hinge.
 11. The upright assembly of claim 1, furthercomprising a second paddle assembly fixedly secured to the first strutat a location closer to the hinge than the first paddle assembly. 12.The upright assembly of claim 11, wherein the second paddle assemblydefines a central portion having a height relative to a length of thefirst strut that is less than first and second heights of first andsecond wings, respectively, extending laterally from the centralportion.
 13. The upright assembly of claim 12, wherein the centralportion of the second paddle assembly defines upper and lower recessesin longitudinal directions relative to a length of the first strut andrelative to lateral directions from which the first and second wingsextend relative to the first strut.
 14. The upright assembly of claim12, wherein the first and second wings are symmetrical in profilerelative to one another.
 15. The upright assembly of claim 12, whereinthe first and second wings extend downwardly relative to the centralportion and a length of the first strut more than upwardly relative tothe central portion.
 16. The upright assembly of claim 12 wherein thefirst and second wings have tapering heights extending toward lateralends thereof extending away and remote from the central portion, thetapering heights being greater than a maximum height of the centralportion.
 17. The upright assembly of claim 11, wherein the second paddleassembly is only secured to the first strut within a central portion ofthe second paddle assembly, the second paddle assembly defining firstand second wings extending laterally from the central portion andflexibly extending relative thereto, the first and second wings beingadapted to receive first and second ends of a strap, respectively. 18.The upright assembly of claim 17, wherein the first wing defines atleast one slot adapted to receive a first end of a strap, and the secondwing defines a coupling member arranged over an opening and proximate toa relief opening spaced apart from the opening, the coupling memberadapted to receive a second end of the strap.
 19. An upright assemblyfor an orthopedic device, the upright assembly comprising at least afirst strut connected to a second strut by a hinge, wherein the uprightassembly further comprises: a first paddle assembly having a lockmechanism, the first paddle assembly adapted to slide along the firststrut and adjustably lock to the first strut among a plurality ofpredetermined locations by the lock mechanism, the first strut formingan adjustment aperture defining a longitudinal slot having a pluralityof wider sections spaced apart by narrower sections relative to thewider sections; wherein the adjustment aperture is adapted to receive apost carried by the first paddle assembly, the first strut is arrangedto be inserted through a paddle slot formed by the first paddle assemblyformed and leading to an interior paddle channel, the plurality of widersections configured to receive the post, and the plurality of narrowersections being too narrow for passage of the post therethrough; whereinthe locking mechanism includes a lever disposed along an inner paddlesurface of the first paddle assembly, the lever being coupled to thepost which extends outward from the lever through the interior paddlechannel to a post opening disposed on an outer paddle surface of thefirst paddle assembly, the lever biasing the post outward, such that thepost traverses the interior paddle channel; wherein the first paddleassembly defines first and second wings, spaced apart by a centralportion including the post and the interior paddle channel, the firstand second wings extending laterally relative to the central portion anda length of the first strut. wherein the central portion extends beyondthe first and second wings, the post is defined at an end portion of thecentral portion directed toward the hinge; a second paddle assemblyfixedly secured to the first strut at a location closer to the hingethan the first paddle assembly; wherein the second paddle assemblydefines a central portion having a height relative to a length of thefirst strut that is less than first and second heights of the first andsecond wings, respectively; wherein the first and second wings aresymmetrical in profile relative to one another; a first strap havingfirst and second end portions arranged to secure to the first and secondwings of the first paddle assembly, respectively; a second strap havingfirst and second end portions arranged to secure to the first and secondwings of the second paddle assembly, respectively.
 20. An orthopedicdevice, comprising: a first upright assembly having at least a firststrut connected to a second strut by a hinge, wherein the first uprightassembly further comprises: a first paddle assembly having a lockmechanism, the first paddle assembly adapted to slide along the firststrut and adjustably lock to the first strut among a plurality ofpredetermined locations by the lock mechanism, the first strut formingan adjustment aperture defining a longitudinal slot having a pluralityof wider sections spaced apart by narrower sections relative to thewider sections; wherein the adjustment aperture is adapted to receive apost carried by the first paddle assembly, the first strut is arrangedto be inserted through a paddle slot formed by the first paddle assemblyformed and leading to an interior paddle channel, the plurality of widersections configured to receive the post, and the plurality of narrowersections being too narrow for passage of the post therethrough; whereinthe locking mechanism includes a lever disposed along an inner paddlesurface of the first paddle assembly, the lever being coupled to thepost which extends outward from the lever through the interior paddlechannel to a post opening disposed on the outer paddle surface, thelever biasing the post outward, such that the post traverses theinterior paddle channel; wherein the first paddle assembly defines firstand second wings, spaced apart by a central portion including the postand the interior paddle channel, the first and second wings extendinglaterally relative to the central portion and the first strut; whereinthe central portion extends beyond the first and second wings, the postis defined at an end portion of the central portion directed toward thehinge; a second paddle assembly fixedly secured to the first strut at alocation closer to the hinge than the first paddle assembly; wherein thesecond paddle assembly defines a central portion having a heightrelative to a length of the first strut that is less than first andsecond heights of the first and second wings, respectively; wherein thefirst and second wings are symmetrical in profile relative to oneanother; a first strap having first and second end portions arranged tosecure to the first and second wings of the first paddle assembly,respectively; a second strap having first and second end portionsarranged to secure to the first and second wings of the second paddleassembly, respectively; a second upright assembly having at least athird strut connected to a fourth strut by a second hinge, wherein thesecond upright assembly is connected to the first upright assembly onlyby the first and second straps which engage a first paddle assembly anda second paddle assembly, respectively, of the second upright assembly.